On November 19, 2024, NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) marked a major achievement with the launch of GSAT-N2 (GSAT-20), a high-throughput satellite, aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket. This mission underscores India’s growing commitment to leveraging space technology for societal and commercial benefits, while showcasing its potential in the heavy-lift launch vehicle segment. Such advancements are poised to secure India’s role in the burgeoning global space economy. Ayushee Chaudhary brings you a detailed report on this launch.

Complementing these efforts, the Defence Space Agency (DSA) conducted Antariksha Abhyas-2024, a strategic table-top exercise aimed at enhancing the Indian Armed Forces’ preparedness in space warfare. This initiative reflects India’s recognition of space as a critical domain in modern warfare, strengthening its strategic readiness. Air Vice Marshal Sanjay Bhatnagar (Retd) highlights the importance of this milestone in securing India’s interests in an increasingly contested space environment.

With the impending return of Donald Trump to the US presidency, India could witness another transformative phase in its bilateral relations with the United States. While Trump’s policies may emphasise economic transactions, there is significant scope for convergence in mutual interests spanning technology, security, and economic growth. The evolving partnership holds promise for shaping a new era of cooperation between the two democracies, further enhancing India’s global influence. Manish Jha talks about how the convergence of mutual interest for both democracies is too obvious.

India’s aviation sector is abuzz with activity, reflecting both ambition and innovation. Business aviation financing has emerged as a dynamic market, catering to the growing demand for luxury and corporate aircraft. With a specialised focus on financing options and risk mitigation, this sector supports a range of stakeholders, including high-net-worth individuals and corporations. an article by Ayushee Chaudhary gives you the necessary details on Business Aircraft financing.

Meanwhile, Dassault Aviation’s Falcon jet family continues to capture the imagination of the business jet market. Drawing from its fighter jet legacy, the Falcon line combines efficiency, performance, and elegance, culminating in the Falcon 10X. This family of aircraft exemplifies cutting-edge range and speed, reinforcing Dassault’s leadership in aviation innovation. Ayushee Chaudhary gives you an overview on the entire Falcon family, covering each aircraft in it.

In an effort to bolster regional air connectivity, the Indian government has introduced new DGCA rules to simplify operations for seaplanes. These measures aim to enhance accessibility to remote areas under the UDAN scheme, with trial runs recently conducted in Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Lakshadweep, and Meghalaya. Swaati Ketkar has a detailed coverage of the recent trial runs of Seaplanes and how these advancements across diverse sectors not only underscore India’s progress but also highlight its capacity for strategic collaboration and innovation, shaping a promising trajectory for the nation on the global stage.

In regional aviation, SpiceJet has resolved a long-standing dispute with Bombardier through a $90 million settlement. In his story, Manish Jha explains how this deal is particularly notable because it involves the acquisition of 13 Q400 aircraft, a key component of SpiceJet’s regional flight network.

All this and more in this issue of SP’s Aviation. Welcome aboard and we wish you many happy landings!